The Pittsburgh Pirates joined the Steelers and Penguins for the fifth annual BurghProud Thanksgiving meal distribution at PNC Park. Despite rainy weather, the teams distributed 300 meal packages to families in need. The event highlights community collaboration among Pittsburgh's sports franchises.
On Tuesday, in rainy conditions with temperatures in the upper 40s, Pittsburgh Pirates manager Don Kelly led his team's efforts at the drive-up event held in the Mazeroski Way cul-de-sac on the North Shore. Kelly remained optimistic, stating, “We were just joking about the weather. This is a great November day in Pittsburgh. It could be 15 degrees and nasty out. It's great to be able to give back."
The event, hosted in partnership with the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank and Giant Eagle, provided families with Thanksgiving meal packages including a turkey, produce, a pie, a Giant Eagle gift card, and team surprises. Pirates president Travis Williams emphasized the unity of the city's sports teams, saying, “We all wear the black and gold, right? It’s kind of neat for the sports teams to come together. We compete—not against each other but as individual sports. To come together and join forces, it’s what Pittsburghers do.”
Preparation for the fifth annual BurghProud event began in the summer, according to Pirates Charities manager of community programming Sarah Heffler. Joining Kelly and Williams were Pirates broadcasters Bob Walk and John Wehner, as well as alumnus Steve Blass. Steelers players Keeanu Benton and Troy Fautanu, along with Penguins players Noel Acciari and Ryan Shea, also participated by packing cars and taking selfies with drivers.
Heffler noted the ongoing need, which intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic when the Pirates increased events with the food bank. Over five years, the collaboration has distributed 1,500 meals. Williams highlighted that approximately 140,000 people in the region face food insecurity. “It means a lot to come together with our friends with the Penguins and Steelers and give back,” Heffler said. “We’re thankful that we’re able to use our platform to come together as the three sports teams to help out.” Additional Giant Eagle gift cards were available for late arrivals.
The event underscores Pittsburgh's sports community spirit, with Heffler adding, “It’s great to be a small contributor to what our community needs.”